Hookworms in dogs of Kuching, Sarawak (North Borneo)

Abstract

Of the estimated one billion people infected with the anthropophilic hookworms, Ancylostoma duodenale and Nectar americanus, about 10% Iive in South-East Asia, where N. americanus greatly predominates (CARROLL & WALKER, 1990). Hence, in published reports (e.g., RAHMAN, 1994; RAJ et al., 1997), the identity of the parasite is assumed, but rarely confirmed. Studies based on faecal microscopy can only presume the hookworm species, unless adult worms have been examined (expelled by anthelmintic treatment); faecal culture for larvae distinguishes only between Ancylostoma and Necator, without providing a species identification. Even when adult worms have been recovered, they have almost invariably been assumed to be N. americanus, without morphological confirmation (e.g., HASWELL-ELKINS et al., 1987).We suspect that human infection with A. ceyhicum is far more prevalent than reports indicate, with many cases presently being attributed to N. americanus. This matter could be resolved by simple but careful studies in hookworm-infected human populations.